Joyce flags another 'no'

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BARNABY Joyce has said he will vote against the Government's
plan to abolish compulsory student unionism unless it is
softened.

His stand deepens the impasse on the issue, adding to the
difficulty Education Minister Brendan Nelson already faces in
getting his legislation passed.

Senator Joyce said for the first time yesterday he would cross
the floor if the legislation were put to the Senate in its current
form.

Dr Nelson has repeatedly said he will not change the
legislation. Yesterday his spokesman refused to comment, other than
to reiterate Dr Nelson's position. The legislation bans compulsory
membership of student unions, and also stops universities charging
a mandatory, non-academic fee, which pays for sports clubs and
services such as child care, as well as student politics.

Asked if he could vote for the legislation as it stood, Senator
Joyce said: "No, I don't think I could."

Several Nationals MPs from both houses of Parliament are worried
that the legislation will harm services at regional universities.
Some have proposed compromises.